Richland Center was settled on either side of the Pine River by trappers canoeing up the Wisconsin River. By 1880 the town's population was 1,227, with stores, churches and a new high school. Today it's the county seat and the area's commercial and cultural center.

World renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, was born here in 1867. He returned in 1915 to build the unique A.D. German Warehouse, easily identified by its Mayan influence and located on Church Street.

Antiques are plentiful. Several dealers are located in the area and they offer a wide range of selections. The 1909 railroad depot has been renovated and re-opened as our visitor center (located on Highway 14 and Seminary Street).

Explore the family genealogy center at the Brewer Library's Richland County history room, or visit the Flag Park off of Highway 14 - a patriotic landmark in Wisconsin's designated 'Purple Heart City.' The renovated courthouse, the first municipal auditorium built in Wisconsin, the Masonic building, the Richland County Bank building, downtown historic preservations and lovingly restored Richland homes capture the area's rich history.

Shopping, restaurants, antiques, motels, and bed and breakfast accommodations are readily available making this is the perfect place to launch your exploration of southwest Wisconsin. The summer season is filled with events for the whole family, plus hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, and caving. While you're here, be sure to attend a Richland County special event.

Richland Community Forest - Three miles south of Richland Center on Highway 80 are 350 acres of rolling hills and woodlands, with trout fishing available to the public in Ash Creek. You can also mushroom hunt in season, and hike and recreate, with handicap accessibility for fishing.

The Richland Center Footbridge - Work on the footbridge began in 1912, enabling west side residents to walk across the river to attend functions, shop and socialize, cutting their travel time in half. A 1951 flood took out one pier, but the bridge was rebuilt and remains a landmark today. It is maintained well and lighted at nighttime. Strolling the bridge, with the wonderful swaying motion that is part of a suspension bridge, brings out the kid in everyone.